Abstract
BackgroundThe widespread social isolation measures recently utilized to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 to older adults may have exuded unexpected consequences. Social isolation among older adults is a risk factor for poor health outcomes. Innovative solutions to balancing public safety and health maintenance for those with dementia and their caregivers are needed.MethodsA sample of N = 82 dementia caregivers participated in a web-based survey to investigate their perceptions on (1) changes in personal mental health due to isolation from their loved one, and (2) the perceived need for use of smart mobile device app use in these situations.ResultsThe majority of our sample (87%) reported experiencing negative mental health outcomes beyond those experienced in typical situations. Furthermore, over 70% of caregivers were concerned with the care their loved on received during social isolation. Finally, 67% reported perceived need to use SMD apps in these times of social isolation.ConclusionOur findings provide preliminary insight into troubling consequences occurring when individuals with dementia are socially isolated from their caregivers. An inverse relationship between SMD app use and poor mental health points to the potential for communication technology to lessen the negative impacts of social isolation, when it becomes necessary to public safety.
Highlights
The need for research on social isolation measures between an individual with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) and their informal caregiver is supported by an understanding of the way in which various forms of isolation, and the experience of loneliness that can result, negatively impact health outcomes
A total of 67 (79.76%) caregivers reported that their care recipient with ADRD was isolated due to institutionalization or hospitalization, and 60 (71.43%) caregivers were concerned about the care that medical or support personnel were able to provide to their care recipient
Sixty-eight (87.18%) caregivers reported experiencing negative health outcomes beyond what they normally experience during this period of isolation or fear of isolation associated with COVID-19
Summary
The need for research on social isolation measures between an individual with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) and their informal caregiver is supported by an understanding of the way in which various forms of isolation, and the experience of loneliness that can result, negatively impact health outcomes. The term social isolation is primarily focusing on public health measures restricting hospital and extended care-facility visitation for extended periods, separating those with ADRD from their family members or informal caregivers. This drastic change in access to meaningful interpersonal relationships and social support cannot be overlooked. Innovative solutions to balancing public safety and health maintenance for those with dementia and their caregivers are needed
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